Trauma Survivors Network - provided by ATS

Survive. Connect. Rebuild.

A Program of the ATS

NextSteps

The NextSteps program is based on the principles of self-management. The self-management approach to health recognizes that YOU play the most important role in your recovery. NextSteps teaches you how to become more active and take control of your recovery. It uses techniques that have been scientifically proven to increase one’s self confidence and sense of empowerment. NextSteps teaches you the skills to become an active self manager of your health and your life.

What are the benefits to the patient in enrolling in NextSteps?

  • More personal power. Patients become skilled at finding solutions to their health problems. They learn to take control of situations that may have felt out of their control in the past.
  • Increased confidence. As patients experience successes with self-management, they gain greater confidence in their abilities to manage their health.
  • Better prepared to handle difficult situations. By being prepared to handle difficulties as they arise, rather than experiencing a crisis, patients can turn what used to be a “wall” into a “speed bump” that they can deal with.
  • Improved health. As patients set health goals and follow a plan for achieving them, they begin to notice improved health. They may experience this is the form of increased confidence, less pain, improved mood, or other ways.
  • Better quality of life. Research has shown that patients with chronic health conditions who engage in self-management activities enjoy improved outcomes and better quality of life.

Some trauma centers offer the NextSteps program in-person, but if your trauma center is not part of the TSN, you can receive all the benefits of the course online.

WHAT DOES PARTICIPATING IN NEXTSTEPS INVOLVE?

There are two ways you can participate in NextSteps.

Some trauma centers offer the class in person. When you enroll in the face-to-face program, you will join a “class” of 8-12 other trauma survivors. Over six weeks, your group will meet once per week for about 90 minutes.

If your center does not offer the class, or if you prefer to meet online, you can still benefit from this program by joining an online group. When you enroll in the program, you will become part of a class with other trauma survivors from around the country. Over six weeks, your class will work through two, 20-30 minute lessons each week. You can work on lessons on your own, and then come together to participate in an interactive chat about your experiences.

No matter which option you choose, this program lets you explore the ways your life has changed since your injury and how to move forward. You take part in group discussions where you can share your experiences and learn from others who are facing similar challenges. Each meeting will cover subjects such as handling depression and grief, dealing with friends and family, working with health professionals, managing anxiety, and getting back on track.

Each group is led by a trained NextSteps group leader and a group facilitator.

HOW DO I JOIN THE NEXTSTEPS PROGRAM?

If you wish to join a NextSteps class that meets in your area, you can look at the programs offered by your trauma center. You can also contact the TSN Coordinator of your trauma center to find out more about NextSteps.

If your trauma center does not offer NextSteps classes, join an online group. Classes are forming now!

Visit NextSteps Online